Everton transfer news as Wilfried Gnonto defeat accepted at Goodison Park
Everton have accepted defeat in their long-term pursuit of Leeds United winger Willy Gnonto despite the player agreeing to personal terms, according to 90min.
The online news outlet shared on 14 August that Everton turned to a move for Gnonto’s Leeds teammate Jack Harrison after concluding they would not be able to reach an agreement with the Yorkshire club to sign the 19-year-old.
This news comes following Gnonto’s refusal to play for the club in their games against Shrewsbury or Birmingham as he looked to force through a move to Goodison Park.
A smart decision from the club
Everton’s decision to move on from the Gnonto deal in pursuit of Harrison will likely prove the smartest choice for the club. The saga surrounding the Italian would likely have dragged on towards the end of the transfer window, whereas moving quickly to get the Harrison deal done means focus can be placed elsewhere.
The club are reported to be looking to sign a new striker, so with Gnonto now off the cards, their focus can be trained on bringing in new targets as Sean Dyche looks to strengthen his attacking options.
Everton managed to score just 34 goals in the Premier League last season, the second-worst tally in the league, while their opening-day defeat to Fulham was summed up by the countless chances they wasted.
Gnonto has done himself no favours in this saga, going on strike to force through a move to Goodison Park has put his reputation at Leeds massively on the line, while other interested clubs may view his behaviour as a deterrent.
In other Everton news, Sky Sports have revealed one Everton player is keen on an exit.